Bishop Timlin's path was not an easy one to travel.   His first nine years were burdened with more difficulties and challenges than those which confronted his seven predecessors. To him fell the task of restructuring the diocese. His only help in meeting those successive hurdles came from the episcopal ordination of Bishop Francis X. DiLorenzo as his Auxiliary on March 8, 1988.

      For very valid reasons, Bishop Timlin pledged to the flock that he was prepared not only to accept the final recommendations, but that he would fully implement them. That synodal promise was realized. A whole range of new services was initiated; advisers were appointed to a variety of commissions; extensive dialogue was begun; offices were opened and directors were assigned or hired.  A new era had dawned.

      Bishop Timlin's style heightened that awareness. Blessed with a ready smile, a gregarious personality, and an ease with words, he showed a willingness to accept final responsibility for every policy and directive. His door was never closed. His mail was answered immediately. It seemed that his energy was limitless. The challenges have multiplied many times over. Yet, each one was handled in its turn and progress occurred.

      For the first time in the history of the diocese, a major restructuring of parishes had to be undertaken. A growing shortage of active priests forced Bishop Timlin to merge parishes. Between 1984 and 1993, resident pastorates dropped to 200. Yet despite their lesser numbers, the pastors were still serving the entire complement of 240 parishes.

      Diocesan schools formed another area of major concern. For the longest period, costs were escalating and enrollments were dropping. But with an enlightened policy of regional mergers, construction of modern facilities, new fund-raising efforts, and a more equitable sharing of operational costs between parents, pastors, and the diocese, the corner was again successfully turned. Today's schools are all competitive and well-received.

      Finally, though he would have preferred relieving the faithful of any further pressures, Bishop Timlin knew that the Diocese of Scranton could not continue to evangelize and serve without more income. With courage, he announced in 1987 and personally guided a new drive called, the "Bishop's Annual Appeal." The success of this annual campaign have allowed the renovation of the Cathedral, education of seminarians, care for retired priests, funding diocesan schools, supporting diocesan media efforts, providing for evangelization, and reaching out to the needy. Bishop Timlin had a right to be proud of his achievement.

      In March 7, 1995, Bishop John M. Dougherty replaced Bishop DiLorenzo as Bishop Timlin's Auxiliary.  Growth and vibrancy continue in our Diocese.  As we approach the Millennium Jubilee, Bishop Timlin has guided the Diocese through a period of Self Study at the parish level to set meaningful goal for spiritual growth and development.  His Episcopal visits have engaged clergy, religious and laity in a cooperative effort to share in the daily life of our Church.  We are again prospering and growing through Community, Word, Worship and Service.